They have also legitimized STRs by charging a 19% tax starting this year.

It can absolutely be done with a legitimate company.

Most legitimate contractors will give you a free estimate.

Contrary to what others have written, there's nothing wrong with a low-ball offer - provided you can justify your offer with legitimate rehab and/or ARV numbers. 

Coming in with extremely strong credit so I’m confident I can find someone willing to fund the deal.Since this is my first time trying to get hard money I could use advice on what basic questions to ask and how to make sure they’re legitimate.

@Keith MeyerTo qualify for Solo 401k plan you must have legitimate business or self-employment activity that produces earned income.

There has been what seems to be zero improvements or legitimate steps toward stabilization.

To my knowledge he becomes a legitimate month to month renter due to having had a lease with the original owner at the time of your closing on the purchase.

That is what will solidify you as a go to investor in their minds.Keep in mind, approaching true hard money lenders is a bit different from legitimate private money lenders.

Now I'm no fan of insurance companies as I have had them deny my legitimate claims in the past but it was these bad actors taking advantage of certain legal loopholes for their own personal gain that has put many of the insurance companies out of business here in Florida.